5 Tips to Improve Your Dental Health

The new year is getting closer, and now is a time when many people start thinking about their resolutions and goals for 2013. This season, make a resolution to improve your dental health.

The following strategies are sure to give you a healthier, brighter smile in 2013:

Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables

Mom was right…eating well is essential for your dental health. A poor diet affects your entire body, including your gums and teeth. Protect your oral health in the new year by eating lots of crisp fruits and vegetables like carrots, apples and celery.

Brush and Floss Daily

One of the biggest keys to good dental health is brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once each day. These simple actions protect your teeth from decay by removing plaque and bacteria.

Scrape your Tongue

Believe it or not, this simple trick reduces oral bacteria and helps remove the gunk from the back of your mouth that causes halitosis.

Visit Your Dentist…Seriously

In 2013, resolve to see your dentist for regular checkups every six months. Seeing the dentist regularly helps prevent the development of dental health problems and lets the dentist monitor your oral health.

Quit Tobacco

Using tobacco through smoking or chewing puts you at great risk for gum disease, recession, cavities, tooth discoloration and oral cancer. If you quit in 2013, your chances of losing your teeth will be drastically reduced.

Consider a New Smile

If you have missing, broken or damaged teeth, resolve to talk to your dentist about solutions in the new year. These problems make you more vulnerable to gum disease and other issues. Dental crowns, veneers or other procedures can restore your confidence and improve your dental health in 2013 and beyond.

Set new goals about having better oral health and a healthier lifestyle in 2013, and these dental health tips can help you go a long way toward achieving a brighter, whiter and healthier smile.